St. André, Miracles and Suffering as a Gift – Jan 06 – Homily – Fr Matthias

 

Fr Matthias gives the homily at Bloomington, IN, on Jan 06, 2026, celebrating the memorial of St. André Bessette, highlighting his devotion to St. Joseph, miraculous intercessions, and the profound gift of suffering as an act of God's love.

In his homily, Father shares the inspiring story of St. André Bessette, a humble porter in Montreal who dedicated his life to helping others seek St. Joseph's intercession. He performed incredible miracles, such as healing a disfigured young man with oil from St. Joseph's lamps, but never sought relief from his own suffering. Father explains that while it's okay to pray for miracles, suffering is a great gift that conforms us to Jesus. Even when God allows pain, it's always out of love, as St. John teaches that God is love. We can ask for relief, but God knows what's best for our souls—sometimes a miracle, sometimes strength to endure heroically. Praise God in all things for our sanctification and growth in love.

1 John 4:8 - God is love essence - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/1john/4?8
Catechism of the Catholic Church - Suffering's redemptive value - http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/para/1500.htm
Catechism of the Catholic Church - Prayer in suffering - http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/p2s2c1a3.htm#2559
Catechism of the Catholic Church - Saints' intercession - http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/para/956.htm
St. André Bessette - Franciscan Media bio - https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-andre-bessette/
Oratory of Saint Joseph - Official site - https://www.saint-joseph.org/en/

Ave Maria!

Mass: St. Andre Bessette - Mem - http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=18
Readings: Wkdays after Epiphany - Jan 6 - http://usccb.org/bible/readings/010626.cfm
1st: 1jo 3:22-4:6
Resp: psa 2:7-8,10-12
Gsp: mat 4:12-17, 23- 25

More on the Readings: https://airmaria.com/r?m=1340&r=1320

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